Volunteer Mentor Review

The role as a volunteer mentor is to work with a ‘focus list’ and ensure they were getting subject specific support in their lessons or through after school interventions. This role ensures we are leaders when facilitating new activities such as lunchtime clubs and 1 to 1 sessions.

City Year allows us to develop new schools each school term. My speaking and listening skills have grown immensely during this experience and my overall confidence has increased widely. I have become a more creative yet critical thinker due to this experience.

We were given many responsibilities during this placement such as being team leader for every term. This allowed us to guide the rest of our team and pass on any inquiries to our impact officer.

We received a variety of support, the most important one was from our impact officer. They were able to test our skills by observing in classrooms which helped us improve greatly.

The atmosphere was enthusiastic especially in training. Due to the impact of COVID we had training sessions online, yet the atmosphere was always exciting.

I enjoyed my placement a considerable amount. Even though the pandemic did not give the most effective opportunity, there were so many positives to take from this. I was happy with the team and life long communications that I built, as well as making a difference to the students that I worked with. I also improved greatly with my soft skills which I have become more confidence with.

Yes

Confidence is key, do not shy away from opportunities. Make sure you work well with your team as they can uplift and guide you further in your journey.